What drives explosive volcanic eruptions?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Explosive volcanic eruptions are mainly driven by the expansion of superheated volcanic gases. As magma rises toward the surface, decreasing pressure allows bubbles of gas to form, and as they rise, they can expand suddenly and violently, fracturing the rock around them and propelling ash, rock fragments, and volcanic gases into the air in an explosive eruption. These eruptions are typically seen in stratovolcanoes, which are composed of viscous and volatile-rich magmas.

What Drives Explosive Volcanic Eruptions